Promoter, ticketing agency threaten to sue each other over Kartel no-showTicketing platform Island eTickets is threatening legal action against Jacho Entertainment after the collapse of the One Caribbean Music Festival, demanding the return of US$80,000 advanced to headline act Adidja “Vybz Kartel” Palmer.
But Jacho Entertainment is pushing back, accusing Island eTickets of breaching its own refund policy and warning the company to halt all repayments until an audit is completed.
“It was patently obvious, it was highly likely that many patrons would not attend the event and there would be an immense number of chargeback and refund requests,” Island eTickets wrote in a letter sent to Jacho on Thursday.
The show, originally set for Carnival Friday, was postponed to May 31.
Just days before the revised date, Island eTickets said it transferred US$100,000 to cover Kartel’s appearance—US$80,000 from ticket revenue and US$20,000 from private sources, reportedly arranged by the promoter.
When Kartel withdrew, citing breach of contract, other foreign performers, including Sizzla Kalonji and Moliy, also pulled out. Chronic Law was the only foreign act to perform. Local acts included Lady Lava, KMC, Iwer George, Joshua Regrello, and Ravi B.
Island eTickets claimed it urged Jacho to cancel the show but it went ahead. The result: low turnout, over 200 refund demands, and 68 chargebacks.
The company is now holding on to US$119,000 and TT$302,000 in ticket proceeds and plans to reimburse all buyers. It is also demanding that Jacho repay the US$80,000 sent to Kartel.
“My client hereby formally demands the return of the sum to facilitate the payment of chargebacks and to fully fund complete refunds to all patrons,” the lawyer wrote.
If Jacho fails to comply, Island eTickets warned it would “be constrained to take further action, including but not limited to legal proceedings,” and said the promoter could be held liable for damages, legal costs and interest.
Still, the platform said it prefers a peaceful resolution. “We hope the matter can be resolved amicably and expeditiously.”
But Jacho is fighting back. On Thursday night promoter Odane Anderson issued a cease-and-desist letter, instructing Island eTickets to stop all refund activity.
“This letter serves as a formal Cease and Desist Notice from the organisers of the One Caribbean Music Festival, instructing you to immediately halt all refund processing related to our event, until a full internal investigation is concluded.”
Anderson argued the refunds were not justified and did not align with Island eTickets’ own refund policy.
“Per your published Refund and Exchange Policy, if your event is cancelled, we will refund the amount you paid for your tickets (minus order processing, service and delivery fees). Venue and talent are subject to change without notice and are not grounds for a refund. Anything promised by the promoter that is unfulfilled is not guaranteed by the seller and is not grounds for a refund.”
Anderson said the show was not cancelled.
“Any and all refund activity is in direct conflict with your stated policy.”
The promoter has demanded a report detailing refunds already processed, including names, amounts and reasons.
“Failure to comply with this directive may result in legal action and claims for damages arising from any unauthorised or unjustified refund disbursements.”
Island eTickets has not backed down.
Police have confirmed a financial probe into the initial US$950,000 paid to Kartel before he pulled out of the concert. Jacho said the payment was above board.
On Thursday, Anderson said he feared for his life as he was now unable to meet financial obligations.
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